The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially adopted Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED) in Ijagun, Ogun State, as a Federal University, marking a significant shift in the country’s tertiary education landscape.
President Bola Tinubu approved the transition on Friday, expressing gratitude to the Ogun State Government for facilitating the process. The announcement was made in a statement from the Presidency on Sunday.
“This is an opportunity for the Federal Government to honor Chief Obafemi Awolowo, who pioneered the revolutionary free education programme in Western Nigeria, and Dr. Tai Solarin, a lifelong educator dedicated to instilling patriotism and leadership in students,” Tinubu stated.
The President also acknowledged the role of the Awujale of Ijebuland in preventing the institution’s closure in 2012, just seven years after its establishment.
TASUED, founded in 2005, is Nigeria’s first specialized university of education. With its transition to federal status, it becomes the first federally owned tertiary institution in Ogun East senatorial district.
According to the statement, TASUED’s existing infrastructure and academic programs mean the transition will require minimal federal investment. The move aligns with the Federal Government’s strategy to strengthen teacher education and improve instruction quality nationwide.
With this development, TASUED joins Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education in Owerri and Adeyemi Federal University of Education in Ondo as the third university of education under federal control.
The decision has been widely welcomed, with education stakeholders hopeful that the federal takeover will bring enhanced funding, academic opportunities, and long-term sustainability for the institution.
